I do a lot of restoration work in old houses that I know have lead-based paint on the trim. What do you recommend for removing the paint and the lead hazard?
Nothing! Only trained and licensed lead removal contractors should handle lead removal. You will find this warning on all our cans of paint: Warning! Removal of old paint by sanding, scraping or other means may generate dust or fumes that contain lead. Exposure to lead dust or fumes may cause brain damage or other adverse health effects, especially in children or pregnant women. Controlling exposure to lead or other hazardous substances requires the use of proper protective equipment, such as a properly fitted respirator (NIOSH approved) and proper containment and cleanup. For more information, call (in the U.S.) the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD or contact your local health authority. While the manufacturers of some chemical paint strippers recommend using their products for removing lead-based paint, you still have to comply with lead removal and hazardous waste disposal regulations. Be safe. Leave this work to specialists.
